Mutual exchange
As a council or housing association tenant you may be able to swap properties with another tenant under the mutual exchange scheme. This is especially useful for tenants who:
- are interested in moving to a new area
- want to find a more suitable home
- need a smaller or larger home
A mutual exchange happens when two tenants decide to swap tenancies (or when three or more tenants decide to move round in a 'chain') and means that you take over the other party's tenancy with any rights or limitations that go with it. This must be with the agreement of everyone's landlords.
A minimum of one week's rent will be payable in advance upon approval of a Mutual Exchange request.
How to find a mutual exchange
The Council's Mutual Exchange provider is called House Exchange.
First you will need to register online at :
Simply follow the easy onscreen steps to complete your application.
We will not unreasonably reject an application, but if you are unsure whether you are eligible for a mutual exchange you can contact your Neighbourhood Officer.
Once you have registered, the website will automatically match you up with people that are interested in a property like yours - You can even build Multi Swaps!
What to do when you have found an exchange
Once you have found someone to exchange with, it's important that you have your landlord's written permission before moving.
So, when you find an exchange, you will need to Complete the Mutual Exchange form available below or on the House Exchange website and email it to neighbourhoods@westlancs.gov.uk
Mutual Exchange Application Form
If you are unable to access our online mutual exchange services then please contact your Neighbourhood Officer on 01695 577177, who will be able to assist you.
Contact us
Once you have found someone to exchange with your Neighbourhood Officer will be able to help with any queries. Our contact details are in the contact panel on this page.
